Palace defends PNoy's presence at Iglesia event

ABS-CBN News

MANILA - Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. denied any political motivation on the part of President Benigno Aquino III in gracing the Iglesia ni Cristo’s event in Bulacan on Monday.

"The main purpose is for the inauguration. There is no political agenda in that event," Coloma told ANC.

He said he does not know if Aquino had the chance to discuss matters with INC.

Aquino inaugurated the INC’s 50-hectare tourism enterprise zone in Bocaue, Bulacan, which also houses the “world’s largest indoor stadium.”

Aquino joined INC executive minister Eduardo Manalo in inaugurating the Ciudad de Victoria, including the Philippine Arena that has a 55,000 audience capacity.

In the past, politicians were seen wooing the influential INC, the third largest denomination in the Philippines. INC practices bloc voting during elections and could easily add millions to the votes of a politician.

Aquino’s meet with INC officials comes at a time when his administration is being criticized for its stance in pushing the unconstitutional Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP).

An impeachment complaint was endorsed today at the House of Representatives.

Coloma reiterated the impeachment complaint is "premature and unwarranted” since the Supreme Court has yet to rule on a motion for reconsideration.

It was widely believed that Aquino tried getting the INC’s support during the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona.

Aquino declared July 27, a Sunday, a special non-working holiday in commemoration of INC's 100th year.